So to help make things easier on you here’s a breakdown of what you need to know regarding California Cannabis Packaging Laws. If you need additional California packaging and labeling resources.
In California, there are separate requirements for packaging cannabis flowers versus edibles.
The actual labels falls into two categories: Primary Panel and Informational Panel. Primary Panel label is placed on the outer packaging but if none exist then it can be placed on the container. Informational Panel label can be placed on the outer packaging or the container.
The Primary Panel label and the government warning labels has to be placed on the outer packaging (if there is no outer packaging than on the container). If the packaging or container is too small for an Informational Panel label then a supplemental label (small paper sheet, hang tag or peel back label) can be used instead.
All manufactured products must meet below packaging requirements before sending to a distributor.
Flower Packaging Requirements:
Packaging cannot look like food packaging
Must be tamper-evident (re-sealable if multiple servings) and child-resistant
Labeling cannot entice children, refer to product as candy, have cartoons or make any health claims
Primary Panel Requirements:
Primary panel is the label on the outer packaging (e.g. box packaged edible is placed in).
Identity of product
The amount of THC or CBD
CDPH-issued universal symbol
Net weight or volume
Informational Panel Requirements:
Informational panel is the label that can be anywhere on the packaging.
Manufacturer’s name
Manufacturer’s website or phone number
Date the product was manufactured
Government warning statement
Ingredient list
Instructions for use
Expiration date
Unique ID or batch number
Edibles Packaging Requirements:
Edible packaging has the same requirements as cannabis flower packaging in addition to the below requirements:
Packaging must be opaque
Primary Panel Requirements:
Primary panel is the label on the outer packaging (e.g. box packaged edible is placed in).
Must include “cannabis-infused\”
Amount of of THC or CBD per serving
Informational Panel Requirements:
Informational panel is the label that can be anywhere on the packaging.
Allergen information
List of artificial food colorings
Basic nutritional information (amount of sodium, sugar, carbohydrates and fat per serving)
Additional Requirements:
Medical products must include “For Medical Use Only”
Secondary packaging is not exit packaging
Visit the following for the most up to date California cannabis regulations.